ibis Blois Centre Chateau is a budget hotel in the middle of Blois, near the royal château that dominates the old town. It is the sort of hotel that does the basics well: a clean room, a straightforward breakfast, a reception that is open when you arrive and a location that saves you the cost of taxis. For many Loire trips that is exactly what is needed. The valley is expensive to see, with each château charging for entry and a good dinner adding to the cost, so a low-cost base in a central town is a smart way to keep the budget under control. Blois has a railway station, a lively old town and easy road links to Chambord and Cheverny, which makes it one of the best-value places to stay in the whole region.
Location and getting around
The hotel is in the centre of Blois, within walking distance of the royal château, the cathedral and the river. Blois station has regional trains to Tours, Amboise and Orléans, which makes day trips to several châteaux possible without a car. For Chambord and Cheverny, you will need a car, a taxi or a tour.
Many visitors combine a car hire for one day with train trips on the others. Check the walking distance to the station when you book, and ask about parking, which in town centres can be limited or carry a fee.
The stay itself
Expect simple, modern and compact rooms with a private bathroom, designed for short stays rather than long ones. Ask for a quiet room if you are a light sleeper, since a central location can mean street noise on busy evenings. Breakfast is generally offered as an optional extra, and it is worth comparing it with a bakery in town.
There is no spa and no garden, and the rooms are not large, so families and groups should check the room types and the sleeping arrangements before they book. The hotel is also friendly for cyclists on the Loire à Vélo, but confirm bike storage when you book.
Who it suits and what to know: it suits budget travellers, solo visitors, families who want a central bed at a fair price, and cyclists passing through. It is not the choice for a romantic escape, so look at the château-hotels and village inns if that matters. Rates are among the lowest in this guide and rise at weekends and in summer. The old town is quiet in winter, many restaurants close on certain days, and the royal château keeps shorter hours, so check opening times and book a table ahead.
The tourist tax is usually added to the room rate, so allow for it in your budget. If you arrive late in the evening, tell the hotel in advance, and keep the address to hand in case you need a taxi from the station.
Why stay here
- ✓Central Blois location
- ✓Close to the royal château
- ✓Budget-friendly rates
- ✓Station in town for trains to Tours
- ✓Compact, modern rooms
- ✓Breakfast available as an extra
- ✓Good for cyclists and walkers
- ✓Check parking when booking
Good questions
Is this a good budget base for the Loire?+
Yes, it is one of the lowest-cost central options in Blois, close to the château and the station. Rooms are simple and compact, so it works best for short stays.
How do I reach Chambord from the hotel?+
Chambord is best reached by car, taxi or an organised tour. Public transport is limited, particularly in winter, so plan your day before you go.
Is breakfast included?+
It is usually offered as an extra and varies by rate, so check when you book and compare it with a local bakery.
